Best Band Saw For Wood and Metal [2021]

Best Overall - WEN 3962

Key Specifications

• 3.5-amp motor
• 72-inch blades
• Dual speed operation
• 3-in-1 dust port
• 2-year warranty

After testing several band saws, our top pick goes to the WEN 3962. This band saw comes with a stand and a work light.

The optional stand helps you choose between the benchtop and floor-standing application based on your working pattern.

Its 3.5-amp motor delivers enough power to cut up to 9¾ inches wide and 6 inches deep. The saw has dual background operation speed that can be either 1520 or 2620 FPM.

The WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw is an excellent tool for any workshop. Its 9¾-inch throat and 3.5-amp motor give it the power to do the work quickly and correctly. The machine does board cuts of up to 6 inches.

The dual-speed operation and its 72-inch blade cut sizes range from ⅛” to ½” – this applies to both hard and intricate cuts. Plus, the entire package comes with a flexible working light to illuminate the table.

The machine also features a 3-in-1 dust port for dirt collection.

The video below shows you what the WEN 3962 looks like in action.

This is quite an adaptable band saw that is easy to use. The unit has an excellent operating system and a saw fence that is easy to adjust, which is a great feature when re-sawing.

Best Premium - SKIL 3386-01

Key Specifications

• 2.5-amp motor
• 120V
• 2800 no-load SFPM
• 9-inch throat capacity
• 3½-inch maximum capacity

This model mainly does lumber ripping and irregular cutting. It is compact and lightweight in that all its essentials fit well in any workshop.

Its 6-TPI blade cuts through a variety of materials. You can make height changes and quick angles by using an adjustable rack and pinion table.

With it, you get an adjustable rip fence that helps you make straight cuts—a miter gauge aids in making precise and accurate crosscuts.

Also, the LED work light illuminates the working space for proper visibility.

This is an ideal machine for individuals looking for a daily small wood-crafting helper. It is suitable for irregular shaping and lumber ripping. Its EZ blade tracking helps you align the blade to the right position easily.

Best Budget - WEN 3959

Key Specifications

• 2.5-amp motor
• 59½-inch blade
• 2500 FPM
• 45-degree bevel
• Weight: 40 pounds

The WEN 3959 displays great power and efficiency. Just like most WEN products, this one is compact and lightweight.

Its spacious working surface gives you enough space to get the work done. With its 59½-inch blade, you get to cut wood ranging from ⅛” to ⅜” wide.

Its compact form makes it an ideal tool to use on almost all sturdy and flat surfaces with ease. It also comes with a 3½-inch dust port.

Other inclusions are a miter gauge, a rip fence, and a 2-year warranty. Its ball bearings give the blade smooth operation, and the unit is highly durable.

If you are looking for a compact and pocket-friendly band saw, then you should consider this product. It works best with all wood types, thus offering superior value for the money.

Best Lightweight - DEWALT MAX

Key Specifications

• Cut capacity: 2½”
• Power: 20V
• Blade speed: 570 FTM
• LED lights
• Dual bearing

The DEWALT 20V DCS371B is a very lightweight tool that is powerful enough for most jobs. It is designed with a blade and hook tracking adjustment.

This feature increases the base, the handle, and the blade service life. It is fitted with an LED work light that allows you to work well, even in darker spaces.

The built-in handle helps you to have absolute control of the machine. Changing the blade is made easier thanks to the dual-bearing blade guide.

In general, this machine is an all-around tool that fits all your workshop needs.

For individuals looking for a well-rounded tool, the DEWALT 20V DCS371B is worth giving a shot. The machine is easy to assemble, it’s portable, and it’s an ideal product for both beginners and professionals.

Best Durable - DEWALT Portable

Key Specifications

• 10-amp motor
• 120V
• 5-inch cutting capacity
• LED light for illumination
• Integrated hang hook

Are you looking for a long-lasting cordless band saw? If so, I present to you the DEWALT DWM120K, which is a highly durable and reliable machine.

It has a powerful 10-amp motor that has an operating power that is good for all job site applications. An LED light is a great addition to its adaptable features.

The entire machine is designed to be convenient and highly durable. You use this machine to make rectangular cutting stock that is up to 5 inches deep.

What is more, you can vary the speed of various applications to different materials.

This machine is not only durable but also lightweight. It comes with other great features that contribute to its effectiveness and ease of usage. Its portability makes it an ideal choice when working in different workstations.

Best Flexible - Milwaukee 2429-21XC

Key Specifications

• 12V
• 1⅝-inch cut capacity
• Battery-powered
• Weight: 6.75 pounds
• 11-inch one-hand cuts

Here is another easy-to-use cordless band saw. The machine has a lower guard that protects your body from the blade cutting area.

From its specs, it weighs less than others in its class. This makes it an ideal tool to use almost anywhere.

It supports both overhead and single-hand cutting applications. It also makes over 150 cuts in a single charge, so it is powerful enough to cut through a ¾” EMT in 3 seconds.

With low vibration and 1⅝” x 1⅝” cut capacity, you get clean cuts on both wood and metal.

The Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 is a good option for anyone looking for a flexible band saw who can handle various small cutting needs with minimal effort. Its variable speed trigger helps you cut a variety of materials.

Best Versatile - DEWALT DCS374B

Key Specifications

• 5-inch cutting capacity
• 20V
• 14 TPI blade
• Battery-powered
• Weight: 12.4 pounds

The DEWALT DCS374B is easy to adjust, versatile, and durable. This cordless band saw is effective and works best for extended periods.

It is fitted with a hook for secure storage. However, it is important to note that the battery is sold separately.

One of its most exceptional features is the variable speed dial, which gives you complete control and is an ideal tool for wide material range.

Unlike its predecessor, this one allows smooth blade changing due to its efficient alignment and adjustments.

This machine features a tool-less blade changing lever, which helps to loosen the blade tension. This makes it adaptable to different job settings.

Having a long-lasting service life is ideal for large-scale cutting.

Best Energy Efficient -Rikon 10-305

Key Specifications

• 2.5-amp motor
• 110V
• 9-inch benchtop band saw
• Blade speed: 1725
• Weight: 44 pounds
• 45-degree angle tilt

The POWERTEC BS900 is a 9-inch band saw that displays quality and versatility. The model has some great features that make it stand out against other models of its kind.

Its quick-release mechanism helps a lot when working on a board that often requires blade change.

This machine is also fitted with a tilting work table, which comes in handy when cutting specific angles. It can bevel up to 45 degrees.

Its design is convenient, and the worktable is very spacious and works a great deal.

For individuals looking for a spacious and high-quality band saw, the POWERTEC BS900 works best for this. It is an excellent addition to everyone’s workspace and is the right choice for mid-sized projects.

Best in Accuracy - WEN 3975T

Key Specifications

• 3.5-amp motor
• Horsepower: 0.33 hp.
• 115V
• 4⅝″ Re-Saw Capacity
• Weight: 75.8 pounds

This is a 10-inch band saw that works best for hobbyists and woodworkers. It is ideal for small cutting jobs. It is designed to fit in most medium-sized working spaces. Its large, cast iron table and 2-inch tall fence protect you from the blade when working.

A safety paddle switch is also included. It offers a beveling angle of 0-45 degrees. You also get a dust port that accumulates all shop vacuum hookup.

Its reduced size makes it suitable for both storing and transportation. The most impressive feature is that it has minimal energy consumption.

Have a look at how the Rikon 10-305 BandSaw is assembled: 

This machine is designed to last longer, making it an ideal band saw for those focusing on power consumption. It consumes energy sparingly while still providing optimal functionality.

Key Specifications

• 4.5-amp motor
• 125-260 FPM
• 5-inch cutting diameter
• 0-60-degree beveling angle
• 5 x 4⅞-inch rectangular cuts

The WEN 3975T Band Saw was designed to make deeper cuts than its preceding model. The saw helps you make up to 5-inch cuts in metal pipes with much ease.

One of its most significant features is its ability to make precise and accurate cuts with ease.

In addition to that, it is a straightforward machine with little to no complications.

This model can bevel up to 60 degrees. This feature, together with its adjustable blade speed, highly contributes to high precision, smooth, and accurate cuts.

It is also rigid and can withstand enormous projects. Its compact design makes it unique.

If you are looking for precision and accuracy on both extensive and small cuts, then this band saw is worth investing in, as it is user friendly, compact, and cost-effective. Ensure you adhere to safety precautions when working with it.